Kunming Stone Forest

Kunming Stone Forest is located in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, about 78 km away from Kunming city center. It is a world natural heritage site and a national 5A tourist attraction. The Stone Forest is famous for its unique karst landform and is known as the "First Wonder of the World." Here, there are towering peaks and grotesque rocks, like a stone forest, which is a masterpiece of nature. The Stone Forest Scenic Area covers a total area of about 400 square kilometers, mainly composed of attractions such as the Greater Stone Forest, Lesser Stone Forest, Naigu Stone Forest, Chang Lake, and Feilong Waterfall. The Greater Stone Forest is the core scenic area, with dense stone peaks of various shapes, some like animals and some like people, which are lifelike. The famous "Ashima" stone statue is located in the Lesser Stone Forest Scenic Area. This stone peak, which resembles a Yi girl, has become a landmark landscape of the Stone Forest. The Naigu Stone Forest is more primitive and rugged, with black stone peaks and a majestic momentum. The best seasons to visit the Stone Forest are spring and autumn, when the climate is pleasant and the scenery is the most beautiful. It is recommended to spend 4–6 hours visiting. There are electric cars in the scenic area that can be used as transportation. After entering the scenic area, you can first visit the Greater Stone Forest, walk along the winding stone paths between the stone peaks, and admire the wonders such as "Sword Peak Pool" and "Lotus Peak." Then go to the Lesser Stone Forest and take photos in front of the "Ashima" stone statue. If you have enough time, you can also go to the Naigu Stone Forest to experience a different style of stone forest. The Stone Forest is not only a natural wonder but also a display of Yi culture. The Torch Festival on the 24th day of the sixth month of the lunar calendar every year is the most grand festival here, with wonderful ethnic song and dance performances and bonfire parties. There are also Yi villages in the scenic area where tourists can experience the customs of ethnic minorities and taste Yi cuisine. In terms of transportation, there are direct buses to the Stone Forest from Kunming East Bus Station, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. If you are driving, you can take the Kunshi Expressway, which is very convenient. The entrance ticket to the scenic area is CNY 175, including the cost of the electric car. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and remember to bring an umbrella in the rainy season. The Stone Forest Scenic Area has complete facilities, including restaurants, shops, and rest areas, which can meet the basic needs of tourists.